Neither of these techniques are going to win any beauty contests, but when you're shooting video, it's the actual video that counts, not how you look when you're recording. If you don't have the dough for a big Steadicam or Fig Rig, these tricks using a simple tripod or a block of wood get the job done nicely.

The video above from Instructables user DIYHacksAndHowTos outlines the principles behind why the Steadicam and Fig Rig work so well. He also offers up a pair of suggestions that get you similar results with a point and shoot or a light mirrorless 4/3s camera or DSLR—essentially any lightweight camera with a standard screw mount on the bottom.

First, if you have a tripod, leaving it attached and holding it at the top of the center column for slow moving shots. Hold it near the bottom of the center column for fast motions to minimize shake. If you don't have a tripod, or would rather use a something like a Fig Rig to widen your grip, grab a 2x4 block of wood (sanded nicely so you don't hurt yourself) and a 3 3/4" bolt with 1/4-20 threads (so you can mount the camera on the end of the bolt.) Drill a hole through the wood and insert the bolt. You should have enough of the bolt through the end of the wood for the camera to be safely mounted.

You can see how it works in the video above, but definitely hit the link below for more details on how this works—and more background on professional mounts and why these techniques are good approximations. .